The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced a significant increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for resident doctors and similar staff working in its medical and dental colleges, bringing relief after a prolonged delay of nearly 21 months.
DA Hike Implemented in Phases from 2024
According to an official circular issued on April 22, 2026, the revised DA will be implemented in phases, aligning with the Government of Maharashtra policy. The hike will be effective retrospectively from July 1, 2024.
The DA rates have been revised as follows:
- 455% from July 1, 2024
- 466% from January 1, 2025
- 474% from July 1, 2025
The final DA rate of 474% will be reflected in salaries starting May 2026.
Arrears to Be Paid with May Salary
Resident doctors will also receive arrears for the period between July 1, 2024, and April 30, 2026. These arrears will be calculated based on the revised DA rates and disbursed along with the May 2026 salary.
The circular clarified that DA calculations will be based only on basic pay and dearness pay under the unrevised pay scale. Additional components such as special pay or other allowances will not be included.
Protest by Resident Doctors Called Off
The decision comes after the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (BMC MARD) initiated a black ribbon protest on April 22, warning of escalation if demands were not met.
Following the announcement, the association has withdrawn all ongoing and proposed protest actions, stating that their primary demand has now been addressed.
Doctors Highlight Financial Strain and Long Delay
Earlier, resident doctors had raised concerns over receiving DA at 443%, despite the government-approved rate reaching 474%. This gap of around 31% had resulted in significant financial stress due to pending arrears.
BMC MARD acknowledged that the issue remained unresolved for nearly 21 months despite repeated follow-ups and discussions.
Assurance of Timely Implementation
Dr. Amar Agame, General Secretary of BMC MARD, welcomed the move, stating that the DA hike was a rightful entitlement. He also expressed hope that such issues would be resolved proactively in the future without prolonged delays.
The association emphasized that it will continue to monitor the timely disbursement of arrears and implementation of revised DA to ensure all resident doctors receive their due benefits without further delay.
